Richard Gutierrez: Unequaled as primetime king

MANILA, Philippines - Records show that as primetime king, the record of Richard Gutierrez is unequalled, superior to all others.

Consider the top-rating shows he topbilled on GMA, starting with Mulawin, where Chard played a birdman with magical powers. From then on, he ruled the primetime slot on television.

Mulawin was followed by, in no particular order: Sugo, Lupin, Asero, Zorro, Captain Barbell, Kamandag, Happy House and Love and Lies.

Those TV blockbusters come to mind as Chard stages a small screen comeback on TV5 via Carlo J. Caparas’ Ang Panday, originated and popularized by the great Fernando Poe Jr. FPJ, friend and contemporary of Chard’s father, Eddie Gutierrez, is his idol.

For the dream role, Chard worked — and still does — long and hard physically, emotionally and spiritually, knowing the role calls for hard action and dramatic prowess. Besides, he follows in the footsteps of an iconic figure. FPJ was actor, writer, producer, director and National Artist.

But direk Carlo J assures that the modern-day Ang Panday was updated and widened to suit Chard’s persona, making it the actor’s very own. He collaborated with director Mac Alejandre and his staff, making sure the image of Ang Panday remains noble and heroic, the symbol of what is good in a world at times dominated by evil.

Ang Panday opens Feb. 29 on TV5, the network’s top primetime attraction, meant for young and old alike.

As child actor, Chard was directed by Carlo in several films produced by Donna Villa. Cast with Chard were siblings Ruffa and Raymond Gutierrez.

When he reached the awkward age, Chard’s parents, Eddie and Annabelle (Rama) sent him back to Los Angeles, California to continue his studies. He came back to Manila already a teener, finishing high school at La Salle Zobel.

GMA signed him up, casting the young actor in youth-oriented shows. Then came Mulawin opposite Angel Locsin and the rest, as they say, is history. A primetime king like no other was born.

Supporting Richard in Ang Panday are Christopher de Leon as main villain and Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Bangs Garcia and Sam Pinto as leading ladies.

Also in the cast are “the new child wonder” Alonzo Muhlach, Epy Quizon, Regine Tolentino, CJ Caparas, Empoy, Chicser’s Ranz Kyle and Ara Mina.

As the story unfolds, more stars are joining the cast of Ang Panday.